Low-frequency signals produced by Northeast Atlantic killer whales (Orcinus orca)

摘要: Killer whale acoustic behavior has been extensively investigated; however, most studies have focused on pulsed calls and whistles. This study reports the production of low-frequency signals by killer whales at frequencies below 300 Hz. Recordings were made in Iceland Norway when observed feeding herring no other marine mammal species nearby. Low-frequency sounds identified ranged duration between 0.14 2.77 s frequency 50 270 Hz, well previously reported lower limit for tonal 500 Hz. appeared to be produced close time tail slaps, which are indicative attempts, suggesting that these may related a context. However, their precise function is unknown, they could by-product non-vocal rather than vocal signal deliberately whales. Although exhibit similar behavior, this sound not detected recordings from date. suggests that, like delphinids, produce sounds, but further will required understand whether exist populations.